Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today met with over 20 Israeli and American victims of terrorism, ages 17-25, at City Hall.  The delegation represents One Family, the largest and most significant organization providing support and assistance to terror victims in Israel.  The group is in the United States from July 18th through August 2nd, to raise awareness about the affects of terrorism on their lives and the lives of their fellow Israelis.  The trip was organized both to provide these courageous young people with a much needed respite and to raise awareness among the American public of Israel’s and the free world’s fight against terrorism.

“Israel and New York City are inextricably linked by our shared values, and our love of democracy,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “Sadly, it comes at a price as there are those who seek to destroy those things that bind us.  Meeting these brave individuals, who has suffered far too much at their young age, is a truly inspirational experience.  Despite their ordeals, they look towards the future with hope, and they inspire us all to continue to fight for those ideals we all hold dear.”
 
“We applaud Mayor Bloomberg for his efforts to draw attention to the issue of terrorism in Israel,” said Michael S. Miller, Executive Vice President, Jewish Community Relations Council of New York. “The JCRC remains committed to ensuring that those who have been murdered in the name of terror have not died in vein.”

Each member of the visiting delegation is a young person who has survived horrendous trauma and injury due to terrorism in the Middle East. Most of these young adults were critically wounded and/or lost family members. Their ability to make a living or provide for their families has been severely impaired.

In addition to visiting New York City, the group will travel to Washington, D.C., where meetings are being arranged with congressional delegations on Capitol Hill.  While in the U.S., they will also speak at synagogues, address community groups, and meet with reporters and journalists.  For relaxation, the group will also do some sightseeing and will take in a Broadway play.

Founded in 2001, the mission of One Family is to fill the gap left by medical care and governmental assistance, and provide for the physical and emotional needs of families and individuals affected by terrorism.